Examining the recent match where England secured a narrow 19-17 victory against Wales at Twickenham, we focus on four English players who struggled to make an impact under the leadership of Steve Borthwick.
In a remarkable turnaround, fly-half George Ford emerged as the hero for England in the match against Wales at Twickenham Stadium. Despite facing a setback due to disciplinary issues that reduced their team to 12 players, England displayed resilience and fought back.
George Ford, who plays for Sale, took on a crucial role and assumed responsibility for a pivotal penalty kick that ultimately secured the victory, especially after Owen Farrell was shown a red card.
This particular game has raised more questions than answers for Borthwick, as a number of key players who are expected to play vital roles in the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup showcased disappointing performances.
Below, we delve into the performances of five England players who failed to meet expectations on the field.
#1. Owen Farrell
Farrell’s overall outing at Twickenham has understandably been overshadowed in his second half sending off. The Saracen looks set to miss the opening match of England’s Rugby World Cup campaign against Argentina, if he is handed a three match ban for his shoulder-charge to the head of Taine Basham.
Evening Standard 5/10: “His tackle technique will come under renewed scrutiny after a poor red card.”
Planet Rugby 3/10: “Kicked well at goal, but the elephant in the room is the skipper’s tackle technique that, again, earned him a red card and possibly a suspension putting the beginning of his Rugby World Cup at risk. A Test he would like to forget.”
Telegraph 4/10: “Started well but there was a strange choice to pass back inside on one attack. Then his problematic tackle technique reared its head again, sent off after being reviewed by the TMO bunker. A ban looms.”
Rugby Pass 0/10: “Farrell couldn’t help himself, his ugly shoulder contact to the head of Basham rightly upgraded to a red card after TMO bunker review of the yellow he initially received. Now faces missing England important pool opener versus Argentina. Had started well, with good variety in his game but doesn’t matter a whit now.”
Replacement: George Ford or Marcus Smith